Temporary VS Permanent Disability Benefits: Understanding Alabama's Workers’ Compensation Act



As a leading Alabama workers' compensation lawyer, Stephen Thompson understands the complexities involved in navigating the Alabama Workers’ Compensation Act. Part of providing clarity to our clients involves explaining the kinds of benefits available to workers who become disabled due to a work-related injury or illness. This article focuses on two types of disability benefits, namely Temporary and Permanent Disability Benefits, which form the cornerstone of workers' compensation claims in Alabama.

Temporary Disability Benefits

Under the Alabama Workers’ Compensation Act, if a work-related injury or illness leaves you temporarily unable to work, you may be eligible to receive Temporary Disability Benefits. These benefits can be broken down into two categories depending on the extent of your disability: Temporary Partial Disability (TPD) and Temporary Total Disability (TTD).

Temporary Partial Disability (TPD) applies if you are able to work, but in a limited capacity and are receiving less pay due to your disability. TPD benefits represent two-thirds of the difference between your normal weekly wage and your reduced wage post-injury.

Temporary Total Disability (TTD), on the other hand, applies when you are completely unable to work for a temporary period due to your injury. TTD benefits pay out about two-thirds of your average weekly wage, but within the minimum and maximum limits set by the Alabama Workers’ Compensation Act.

In both cases, temporary disability benefits are payable after a three-day waiting period and continue until you are either able to return to your work or until you reach your maximum medical improvement.

Permanent Disability Benefits

If your work-related injury or illness results in a permanent disability, then there are two types of benefits you might be eligible for under the Alabama Workers’ Compensation Act: Permanent Partial Disability (PPD) and Permanent Total Disability (PTD).

Permanent Partial Disability (PPD) benefits cover workers who are permanently disabled but not completely incapacitated. PPD can apply to both scheduled losses (specific body parts mentioned within the Act) and unscheduled losses (conditions affecting body functionality as a whole). To determine the amount of benefit, factors such as the extent of impairment, wage loss, age, education, and skills are considered.

Permanent Total Disability (PTD) benefits are for workers who are unable to return to any form of employment due to their workplace injury. If you are deemed as permanently totally disabled, you may receive a weekly benefit equal to two-thirds of your average weekly wage, up until the age of retirement.

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Knowing the Difference Can Aid Your Claim

Understanding the differences between temporary and permanent disability benefits under the Alabama Workers’ Compensation Act can significantly aid your claim process. As a dedicated Alabama workers’ compensation attorney, Stephen Thompson, is committed to empowering you with relevant legal knowledge. It’s crucial to remember that each case is unique, and the applicable benefits depend largely on the specifics of each individual situation.

It's also important to note that while workers’ compensation laws are designed to protect you, the process can be daunting and complex. Ensuring all the necessary paperwork is filed correctly and timely can be overwhelming, especially when you're focused on recovering. As a seasoned Alabama workers’ compensation lawyer, Stephen Thompson can help guide you through your claim, advancing your rights and interests and working to secure the best possible outcome for your situation.

If you've suffered a workplace injury in Alabama and you believe you may be entitled to temporary or permanent disability benefits, don't hesitate to contact Stephen Thompson. Years of experience coupled with unparalleled dedication ensure you receive the best legal advice and representation for your workers’ compensation claims in Alabama. Reach out today and let us navigate the complexities of the Alabama Workers’ Compensation Act together.

Additional Reading

Recent Alabama Decisions Related to this Subject

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